UN1845 identifies carbon dioxide, solid, also called dry ice. The required markings, hazard labels and transport documents depend on the mode, jurisdiction, quantity and applicable exceptions. Do not copy a generic label template and assume the shipment is accepted. Confirm the complete requirements with the carrier or a competent dangerous-goods specialist.
Markings, labels and documents do different jobs
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Package marking | Identifies the material and applicable shipment information, such as dry-ice net mass. |
| Hazard label | Communicates a hazard class when required under the applicable rules. |
| Transport documentation | Provides shipment information to the operator in the required form. |
| Packing and carrier acceptance | Establishes that the configuration and shipment can be handled by the selected service. |
A correct-looking printed label cannot fix an unsuitable sealed container, an incorrect quantity or missing operator arrangements. Dry ice requires gas release as it sublimates.
For US air transport, start with the applicable rule
49 CFR 173.217: carbon dioxide, solid includes aircraft-specific provisions on dry-ice net-mass marking and operator arrangements. It also contains conditional exceptions. Their scope matters: an exception from one requirement does not remove every other packing, marking or carrier requirement.
For a fully regulated shipment, determine the applicable proper shipping name, identification number, Class 9 label requirements, documentation and package information through the complete governing rules and operator instructions. This article is a decision checklist, not a ready-to-print legally approved label.
State the net mass of the dry ice, rather than total parcel weight, where the applicable requirement calls for it. Make sure the stated amount corresponds to the shipment preparation procedure. Do not treat a passenger-baggage allowance as a commercial parcel limit.
Postal shipments need their own check
USPS requirements are separate from a generic commercial air-freight checklist. Read USPS Packaging Instruction 9A for the applicable dry-ice packaging and marking instructions, together with Publication 52. Confirm the actual service, routing and contents are permitted before mailing.
Do not infer that a carrier accepts dry ice because it accepts ordinary parcels or sells insulated packaging. The service and material must both be acceptable.
Helpful decision tools
Check the details before you choose packaging
These quick tools can help you compare route risk, sizing needs, coolant choices, and packaging details before you request a quote.
Insulation Material Reference
Compare insulation material choices for different cold chain packaging needs.
Compare materialsCompliance Checklist Generator
Build a practical checklist for packaging review, shipping, and documentation.
Build checklistDry Ice Calculator
Estimate dry ice needs for frozen or ultra-cold shipments before packing.
Estimate dry iceUse a dispatch checklist
- Identify the contents and refrigerant; determine whether other hazardous materials are present.
- Confirm origin, destination, transport modes and selected operator.
- Choose packaging that safely releases CO₂ and is appropriate for the payload.
- Determine the applicable markings, labels and documentation, including any valid exception.
- Verify dry-ice quantity and package count against the prepared shipment.
- Check that package information is legible and unobstructed and that carrier arrangements are complete.
Use a trained reviewer for the final shipment decision. Recheck requirements when a service, route, quantity, product or packaging changes.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Class 9 label always required?
Do not assume a universal answer. The governing rules and valid exceptions determine the requirement for the specific shipment.
Is UN1845 the same as the dry-ice quantity?
No. UN1845 is an identification number; net dry-ice mass is separate shipment information.
Can I use the gross parcel weight?
Not when the requirement asks for net dry-ice mass. Distinguish coolant mass from the weight of packaging and goods.
Does this article certify my shipment?
No. The actual prepared package and the applicable rules need a competent dispatch check.
Plan the coolant quantity before dispatch
See dry-ice quantity planning for the thermal study inputs.
